Radha Stirling, founder of Detained in Dubai who represents Andy said: "I spoke with Andy by phone who is extremely hopeful and nervous. He’s been told a decision on his release would be made in the past but then nothing ever happened, but he is praying nonetheless."

Corporal Richard Marshall served with Andy for three years in the Army Royal Veterinary Corps dog training unit in Stennelager, Germany.

Corporal Richard Marshall with military working dog Harvey served with Andy Neal (Image: Detained in Dubai)

He said: "Andy was committed to his family, his friends and colleagues, and the dogs we trained.

“Andy originally came from an infantry unit before he fell in love with the idea of working with dogs. He was so dedicated to a career training and handling dogs that he actually took a voluntary drop in rank to become an army dog trainer.

“Andy also cared deeply for people. He would treat everyone the same - whether they were higher or lower rank than him didn’t matter to Andy. Everyone got respect and consideration from him."

Corporal Jan Rutherford, who also served with Andrew Neal in the Worcestershire & Sherwood Foresters, said: "Out of all the soldiers I served with, Andrew Neal was the most honest, caring and family-oriented man I knew.